Used 2005 Subaru Forester Wagon Consumer Reviews
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Love this car, but...
kmcglynn, 11/24/2012
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
47 of 49 people found this review helpful
We love our 2005 Forester! It is a ton of fun to drive, and the leatherette interior with heated seats is very good for all of the bad weather we have here in the Pacific Northwest. This is one of the better quality SUVs for the money and the AWD is great!! However I do have one small issue with it. We barely hit 80k miles on our Forester and we already need to get the head gaskets replaced, which have set us back another $2,000. This has been the only problem with the car and it is running perfectly other than this issue, however we did some research and it is a HUGE problem with Subaru engines throughout the lineup. If you can get over that though, this car is definitely worth the money!!
2005 Subaru Forester
lucasr, 06/06/2012
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
31 of 32 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased a 2005 Forester with 95k miles on it, and will be using it as my college vehicle. It had 2 previous owners and no accidents reported. It appeared to be mechanically sound. So far, it has been an excellent vehicle. The ride is smooth, and it handles nicely. Some complain about power on these vehicles - I have had no issues with power. I drive plenty both in town and in the country where I live. It is excellent in both settings. I have no issues with getting up to speed on the freeway. My gas mileage has been an acceptable 20-22 mpg, and I expect it to be a little better when I take it for my first long trip on the highway. So far, this vehicle has been a joy to own.
GREAT VEHICLE
4TIRES, 06/03/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
I've had it for 2 months now and did some camping (therefore loaded it a lot) drove in hilly roads and so far, nothing to complain about! Great purchase, great handling, good power/weight ratio. Good feature too, the hill holder that prevent the vehicle from going backward on an inclined road (excellent when you are fully loaded in a very steep road at a traffic light).
Simply The Best Small SUV
CC Rider, 08/13/2010
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
28 of 30 people found this review helpful
We've had our Forester XT Turbo for 5 years now and it has over 130,000 miles. It sees hard daily use for both business and personal reasons. In comparing this with other small SUVs which we test drove, like the RAV4, CR-V, Liberty, Highlander and Pilot, there was simply no comparison. It easily out accelerated, braked and handled all the others. The interior has lots of neat little compartments to store everything from pens, pencils, cups, change, glasses, map books and more. The H4 engine performs very well, but tends to use more oil than most fours we've had. Problems at 100,000K have been a new radiator, cam timing belt and power steering pump. Gas mileage is mediocre at 20.
Eleven Years, then four more years
Bruce C. Ogilvie, 02/07/2018
updated 02/10/2020
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Moonroof (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
26 of 28 people found this review helpful
Bought this 2005 used in 2007, and then the rest of the story: original review - AWD that really works - and winter driving in Northern Michigan with Blizzack Snowtires = safe driving and security, what more is needed? Low maintenance costs over eleven years - bought the 60,000 mile warranty and never used it! Rebuilt engine at 100,000 miles - head gaskets, timing belt, new pumps and belts - plan to keep it for another 80,000 miles or more. New information: In December 2018, after being sideswiped by a speeding large SUV - the insurance company "totaled" the car, refused to repair the sheet metal damage. So we bought the 2005 Subaru, fixed it after the winter 'rush' at the collision center. In the interim, we bought a 2012 Subaru Forester to use. After repairs, the 2005 Subaru looked good as new and our next door neighbor offered us so much money for the car that we sold it to him. Now, two years later he still happily drives it, and we are still using the temporary 2012 Subaru. I am not sure who is better off ... he has turned down several offers to sell his 2005 ... no one has offered us anything for the 2012. I think he has the better car.
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Good functional vehicle
JS, 08/14/2016
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
This model year was not high on creature comforts or technology but very high on safety, visibility, handling and high ground clearance for areas getting a lot of rain. Excellent cargo capacity for this smaller size SUV.
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Ugly but reliable and unstoppable in bad weather
Mark, 10/18/2017
2005 Subaru Forester XS L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
We got talked into buying a used LL Bean edition Forester while looking at Jeeps at the Subaru dealer, and it's been one of the best 'mistakes' we've ever made. Never had experience with the brand before but are very pleased. It's not particularly attractive (it's silver and gold), but it's been easy and cheap to maintain. I'm no mechanic, and even I've had no issues with oil changes, trans fluid changes, brakes, headlights, etc. My wife no longer needs to worry about when to activate 4x4, and it drives confidently in the <6" snow storms we usually get around here. Has had a couple oddball issues like heat shields rattling and the brake backing pads rubbing, but all have been easy fixes. Only real complaints are that it should sit 2" higher and have another 30-50 horsepower. Acceleration is SLOW for someone who's used to V6s and V8s, but it's fine once you're up to speed. Actively looking for another though, as the downfalls are easily outweighed by the reliability and drive quality.
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Great first car!
redrider05, 08/14/2012
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
This is my first car, which I got for a steal, considering it has a shocking 192k miles. I was very weary about getting a car with that many miles, but it was the only Subaru available in my budget. Subarus have been in the family for years and I know they are reliable. Whoever had this car before took good care of it. Regular maintenance was done and I found nothing wrong. I've had her for a few weeks and she runs great. I plan on keeping her maintained enough to get another 100k miles. I love my Forester and now I'm making fun of my mother, who drives an Impreza sedan. My car is way cooler then hers.
Lots of car for the money
Scott, 08/22/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Forester for my daily commute of 100 miles a day round trip. I gave up a perfectly good running Honda with 260K miles for the Forester and with the exception of gas mileage, I am very happy. The Honda was a consistent 32-36 mpg and this is around 24-26 on the highway, but with premium gas. Doing the math, that is comparable to 22-24 mpg running regular fuel. The car is FAST, fun to drive, practical, reliable (the Forester is built in Japan) and an excellent value for the money when compared to other vehicles. My ONLY complaint is the gas mileage. I would expect a little better with a 4 cylinder engine, but then again it's a turbo and AWD. Passing on the highway is done with ease.
My third Subaru and disappointed
Brent, 10/23/2017
2005 Subaru Forester XS L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2005 Subaru Forester L.L. Bean with 69,000 miles on it. Thought I was getting my dream car and was my third Subaru. If you google Subaru problems my car has had every single one of them. A few of the major problems are as follows. Was on long weekend road trip with the family and one of the spark plugs blew out of the cylinder striping the threads. Spent our road trip at a cheap hotel in the winter while the car was being repaired. Since then the check engine light is on and the cruise control light blinks. Took it to a Subaru dealer who was rather uninterested in offering options other than rebuilding the motor. Last week the head gaskets blew, still don't have a repair estimate on them. I've always been a Subaru guy but that feeling is fading. I will say though that I live in a northern state and have never been stuck in the snow while driving my Subaru
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Do these things ever break?
niclo, 04/26/2010
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Moonroof (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
105k miles and still drives like new! never had a car with this many miles that didn't start to wander around the road or rattle or run bad or something...
2005 Subaru Forester 2.5 XS
99excell, 08/18/2006
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
Bought this new 22 months ago and have approximately 43,000 miles on it. I have had absolutely no problems with this vehicle, which is more than I can say for the new domestic models I have bought over the last thirty years. I average about 27.5 MPG and my annual maintenance costs run about $300. I service it regularly with Mobile 1 synthetic motor oil and have all other maintenance performed by the dealer. I take comfort in the knowledge that it is one of the safest and most reliable vehicles out there and fully expect to replace it, someday, with another one.
160k miles and still going strong
160kmiles, 11/30/2010
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
Bought this specifically for long distance commuting on the highway and it's been a great car, 110k miles before I had anything break on it. Great highway mpg 25-26.
Handles horrid driving conditions like a breeze!
Lu, 12/21/2017
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I got a great deal on my '05 Forester, only 3,000. I purchased it with 93k miles. I am the second owner of the vehicle. The previous owner was an older lady who probably was unaware of the issues with the car as it appeared very little work was done on it. I had to have quite a number of things done to get it to drive okay, the largest being the entire AWD system and breaking system redone. From there I had done some basic PM to make it a smoother ride (timing belt change, new winter tires, new muffler, ect.) After much work it now drives beautifully. This is the first car i've ever owned with no maintenance lights on! It's 100% worth the money though, no nasty car payments or fleases. HOW DOES IT HANDLE RURAL NEW ENGLAND WEATHER? Beautifully! So far with this vehicle I have driven through 10 inches of fresh snowfall on an unplowed horridly maintained back road, through pot-hole-filled unmaintained dirt roads in the White Mountains, down very steep inclines, and through post-flood debris. It only has about 8" of clearance which I was concerned with at first but it seems that amount is just enough to avoid scraping by. Other reviews say the highway noise is loud, and yes, yes it is. But if you live rural like me you don't care about that! Also, the heated seats are fantastic to have when it's 4 degrees out. Another important thing to mention is that i am 5 feet tall and 82lbs. If you are little like me you wont have any issue seeing over the dash. However if you are very tall i'd look for another car.
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Still Goin’ Strong
J.A.N., 05/31/2020
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Subaru’s last, a long time if regularly maintained. This vehicle looks dated, but engine and trans are fine, responsive. Lots of life left for a caring owner. Some components need replacing just because of age deterioration, for example strut mounts, etc. But if you need a reliable car but are not in a position to spend much, the 2005 Forester is a fairly safe way to go.
New Subaru Owner
ICW, 06/01/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Just got an automatic 2005 XT turbo Forester last week. Took it on a trip to New York city for Memorial Day weekend from PA (approximately 350 mile round trip). We love everything about this car so far! We were looking for a car with more cargo space than our two compact sedans, but were not interested in a large SUV or minivan. We have a 1 1/2 year old baby and what initially attracted us to Forester was its high safety rating by Consumer Report. We also are looking for a AWD or 4WD for the winter. After looking at various small SUV and wagons (Honda CRV, Toyota RAV 4, etc) we decided to go with Subaru based on many positive reviews. I personally love the extra power turbo provides.
2005 Forester
Bryan, 04/05/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Moonroof (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have had the ability to side-by-side compare a new CR-V against my new Forester because my mother-in-law bought a Honda two months before I bought the Subaru. She drove my Subaru a half dozen times & wishes she had got the Subaru in hindsight! She does love the fact tha ther Honda CR-V is known for excellent reliability. My opinion in comparison - both cars are practical and fun to drive. I feel the Subaru has a bit better finish and a more solid feel to it. The spare belongs in the car, Honda. I'm partial to the aesthetic of the Subaru, but that too is subjective. Handling is another matter though, no subjective opinion here - the Subaru just handles better. Both need better MPG!
Mom-mobile (that Dad likes, too!)
susanw, 05/16/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
My 1987 Volvo 240 died. Dilemma - how to replace a tank without going over to the dark side (SUV)? I did a lot of research to find the perfect car for my needs - top safety marks; enough room for 3 kids, backpacks, a dog and a trombone; great sight lines/no blind spots; good handling in winter and rainy conditions; and under $22,000. I did NOT want an SUV, as I consider them evil and everything bad America stands for. Ahem. OK, I know the Forester is considered a 'small SUV' by most reviewers, but it uses the Impreza car base, so it snuck in under the SUV-dar. And I'm grateful it did - this car is just about perfect for anyone for whom safety is key. Check out the crash tests.
Great Car
Louis C., 11/15/2008
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I've had three Subarus and this has to be the best overall package. Not that I've had any problems with the others, but the Forester has it's advantages. Ground clearance being one of the strong points along with handling. You feel really safe and in control. Good brakes, good power and very reliable. This car is underrated.
Fun Crossover SUV
BTR, 01/12/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The Forester is an awesome crossover SUV. While slightly more expensive than some of its competitors, considering what is included makes it a superior value. This is a truly FUN car / SUV to drive; its peppy engine (largest standard engine in its class) and excellent handling (aided by AWD technology) make it a winner! Lots of room inside, and plenty of storage nooks. A great all-around vehicle - enjoy!
After 190,000
zoneblitz, 05/11/2010
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
After 190,000 miles it runs great. Changed the oil every 5K, gone through 3 sets of tires and one brake job 2 weeks ago.
Absolutely Awesome SUV!
TomnThurmont, 03/25/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XS L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is easiest the best vehicle I've ever owned! It's comfortable (even for a big guy - 6'3", 230 lbs.), gets incredible gas mileage (I average over 27 mpg), and is really fun to drive. You get the good of a SUV (visibility, ease of entry/exit, etc.) as well as superior performance/gas mileage. What a fantastic vehicle!
It just keeps going!
Scuby, 08/10/2010
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for its size, performance and reliability. I now have over 100K miles on it and it has had no issues and drives like the day I bought it. I will say the OEM tires had to go at about 15K miles. I also installed sport springs and stiffer sway bars. Those simple improvements greatly increased handling. The automatic has performed perfectly but could use a extra gear which would help in the gas mileage. I do get about 25 MPG overall as I do a lot of highway driving. The fits well in my small garage too.
Great for the money
Kevin, 11/20/2009
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for the price/gas mileage rating and room for "work stuff" in the back. I did no background checking. Now with 111000 miles logged I have had no problems with this car. I do wish the gas mileage was a bit better but I live in the CO Rockies, lots of hill climbing. I like all the storage compartments but they took those out in the new 2010 model. Too bad. Over all a great car for this class, price & size.
Fun Subaru
John_vree, 09/13/2006
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
Overall fun car to drive due to 200+ hp. Outstanding in bad weather (Des Moines in January) and lots of acceleration and good handling. We have hauled SUV loads of products from Sam's Club, etc, so interior storage is good. I don't get the 20 mpg from a 2005 4-banger. Highway mpg is about 25. Interior legroom for a 6'2" guy is limited. I guess you can't have it all.
The costliest 40,000 miles I've ever put on a car.
Ugghh, 01/11/2018
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
16 of 22 people found this review helpful
I've wanted a Subaru for a while. I finally had the chance to buy one and it sure was a mistake. The car had a rebuilt engine at 120,000 miles. I bout it with 124,000 miles. Since then I've had to replace Radiation, Radiator Hoses, Power Steering Pump, Oil Cooler Gasket, Valve Cover Gaskets, AC Gaskets, Knock Sensor, Brakes and Rotors all around, Rear Wheel Bearing. The harmonic balance failed and I had to replace timing cover, belt, tensioner, pulleys, and water pump. Lower Ball Joints. Front Sway Bar End Links. At around 142,000 miles the car started to get really loud when warming up in cold weather. Took it to Subaru and was told it is Piston Slap. Nothing I can do. I was quoted $3500 for lower end rebuild or $5200 for a used motor. It is now at the dealer again for another coolant leak. It is on top of the engine block. It's either $160 to put in a 4 inch elbow hose or if the line going to that hose is bad $500. I'm over this lemon. Also my valve covers are leaking again and my head gasket is seeping oil. I'll never buy a Subaru again. Every time I have to research a problem I find out all of the other horror stories that others have experienced. I can't believe I thought American cars were junk. I should have kept my 94 Silverado. It only got 13 mpg, but I could buy a lot of gas with the $6000 I've spent on repairs on this car. Please avoid Subaru Motors at all cost.
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Great small SUV
aquapong, 03/19/2009
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased the Forester while looking for a small SUV. I thought about a Forester several years before, but passed on it. When I came back for another look, I knew it was for me after the test drive. Personally, I love the interior and the I4 engine is good enough for it. It's not going to go roaring down the interstate, but it's got more pep than many other I4's seem to have. I've had it for a year and I'm completely satisfied with it and would recommend it to anyone looking for a moderately priced small SUV without all the frills. All the usual convenience features are there.
Happy Subaru owner
J, 02/01/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I used to drive a 2750lbs 175HP Nissan Sentra so my new Subaru with 3135lbs 166HP felt a bit sluggish at first. I also test drove an XT but decided to buy X because of the price difference and gas price. After the break-in miles, the car responds much better and I don't feel it's slow at all. In fact, Forester X has more than enough power. The ride is great and the mileage averaged 27MPG so far (80% highway 20% city). The best mileage I got was 34MPG on a 100% highway trip with cruise set at 65MPH. I couldn't believe the mileage and I made sure I calculated right! I hope it improves further since I have only 4000 miles on the odometer.
Great Sleeper
Corkfish, 01/27/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
With 10,000 miles on the clock, I've had no problems. The car was just what I was looking for because I wanted something that was fun to drive and offered serious (not just spirited) performance, but in a plain jane package. I'm 45 and conservative so I did not want a sports car, muscle car or anything else that would attract a lot of attention. There isn't anything out there that offers so much versatility and performance for the money. AWD, 0 to 60 in less than 6 seconds, and you can carry a big TV in it. No, you won't be blowing the doors off of Mustangs or 350Z's, but it's pretty amazing that they won't blow your doors off either.
the little subaru that could!
john, 12/16/2004
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
i enjoy driving this truck very much, it has confidence-inspiring handling, great acceleration, and certain fun factor that is unexpected in a small suv. my other car is a 2004 corvette so i value driving fun when i consider a vehicle for purchase. and this subie does't disappoint! fit and finish is great. the wagon has a fine tailored look with supporting comfortable leather heated seats that truly warm your buns! there is plenty of cargo room for all,except perhaps large families going on a long vacation but there is a roof rack to help resolve that issue. i've had subarus in the past and the allwheel driving system is unstoppable in all weather conditions. this is a great car, forget about price points.
Fast, Tough, and Versatile
Nick, 11/22/2006
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
With a little one on the way, we wanted something a little bigger with that still offered reasonable mileage. Went with the TURBO due to our high altitude (7200ft) and plethora of mountains. Very peppy with our AVG MPG of 22-24. On backpacking trips we've taken it on unmaintained roads that are difficult to walk much less drive over. Our Forester handles them amazingly well. No problems to report. We change the oil every 3K and wash it every couple of weeks, that's it. We bought a 15 cu.ft. Thule box for long road trips. Fits great on the factory roof rack. The ride is much quieter than the '05 CR-V and the climate control had no problem with 115+ heat of Death Valley. We're very happy with it!
a good family car
slipsheet, 02/17/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Purchased to add a second car to family for my wife. Hadn't needed two cars for previous three years as I was a night shifter. Primary factors driving this purchase were snow driving, safety and fuel economy. Additionally it's a very good looking car. Car handled great in the one or two snowstorms we had this year. Also mpg is 10 higher than some of the slightly larger suv's in same market. We weren't looking for a tank, just a car that handled better in the snow than our '00 Jetta. Backseat is a little tight for adults but the only person that uses it is our three year old in a car seat. We also shopped the Honda CR-V but chose this because it fit us better.
Subaru # 7
ihtpsswrds, 02/26/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This buggy replaces my wife's 2004 Forester that was hit TWICE while stopped in traffic. An incredibly safe vehicle. We walked away both times with very few injuries. Both times we were plowed by much larger trucks; you should see the other guy:). My wife prefers the zero hip entry height of this over my slightly lower Outback. The Turbo adds zip and a feeling of "lightness" during acceleration and the "smart" airbags front and side are a great comfort. The seat heaters and the climate control system are perfect for the local climate, where an hour's drive may take you over a 40 degree temp change. If it wasn't for the outside temp display, you might not notice the difference.
Great Compact SUV
Ed, 03/30/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Fabulous acceleration. Handles and rides like a sedan. Subaru AWD is excellent. Slippery conditions are handled like they do not exist. Plenty of compartments for storage throughout the vehicle. The cargo area is large and very well designed. Drop the flat folding rear seats and the area is cavernous. Very comfortable and we love the power seat and the upgraded audio system that is standard. Turbo engine is really powerful and there is no turbo lag. Overall, a great compact SUV. Kudos to Subaru.
Sturdy No-Nonsence Quality Vehicle
MRT123, 08/26/2004
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
the Subaru Forester is a quality built and safe all-wheel drive alternative to many SUV's without this level of safety. the Forester has not Roll-over warning like most of the SUV's on the market. That little "roll-over" warning posted on the driver's side sun visor in most SUV's is a Death sentance" in an accident. You don't have to worry about that in the Foester.
Pleasant Surprise
Bob C, 02/12/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Trying to find my wife a useful non-barge wagon or SUV, looked at Outback, took a chance on Forester. Congratulating myself. Turbo is very quick, handles way better than most sedans, feels bulletproof, great build quality. Took it from GA to New England over holidays, got into big snow, AWD very confidence building. Highly recommend.
Nice vehicle
COOL, 06/23/2010
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The AWD is great in the winter. Wife doesn't have to worry about putting the vehicle into 4WD like the Tahoe.
Engine leaks and crappy transmission
Camelot, 01/01/2017
2005 Subaru Forester XS L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my Forester L.L. Bean from the original owner and got a very good price on it, but for most people I think Foresters are over priced and over rated. Made an annoying high pitch whistle after I first got it, that went away after a few months. Recently the head gasket blew so it's burning anti-freeze which smells awful but runs OK once warmed up. When it's cold it makes a chugging sound. Also leaks oil. I'm told this is common with old Subarus. The Boxer engine is expensive to repair. The whole thing needs to be pulled out of the car, and new gaskets put in. Not worth it to me. I'll just keep adding oil and anti-freeze. Automatic trans seems outdated and sometimes clunky. Has to down shift a lot because the engine doesn't make enough power.
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Noisy like a Jeep Wrangler
huhwuuuuut?, 11/25/2010
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 14 people found this review helpful
My ownership experience was short, and for good reason. This vehicle is deceivingly small, slow to respond to driver input, and extremely noisy. The windows are prone to extreme wind noise, and there is no good fix for it. Autotragic transmission felt as if it was on life support at 50,000 miles. If you have to buy one of these, look for a stick shift. Gas mileage is decent for an AWD vehicle, I think that I averaged 22-23. If you are looking for a roomy family vehicle, keep looking. My old Honda Civic was bigger than this tin can.
Pretty Blue Suub, color that is
forester, 02/08/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Very poor interior quality! Bright color looks nice when brand new and after one year only when its wet! No leg room in back seat. Sad. if only they would put quality exterior paint and finish and quality material inside I would say this was the best vehicle around. Back seat lacks comfort for adults and if you have one car seat there's only one more seat comfortably available.
Forester 2.5 X
Peter, 02/16/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Have had several Subaru's over the years as I live in snowbelt country. Car gets you there with its AWD. Have had very few problems in the past, thus the purchase of a new Forester. I didn't need all the frills so I got the plain X model, but it has all the stuff I need. Great so far.
8 Yr Review- My lemon is literally falling apart :(
truth_b_told, 09/05/2013
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
9 of 21 people found this review helpful
It has taken me from point A to B and been reliable in that aspect..but Everything Else about it just sucks. Transmission constantly shifts and is starting to slip, Lack of power going through the Rockies, squeaks and rattles galore, horrible wind noise, will barely start in 20 degree weather, paint is chipping away all over the car, plastic interior is flimsy, speakers suck, and the list goes on. It hasn't been terrible, but it hasn't been good. I want to mention I have always garaged the car, maintained it since day one, here in CO we don't use salt on the roads so why the paint issue? It only has 78,000 miles on it. Check Consumer Reports, I'm just waiting for head gasket to blow
05 2.5 X is dreamy
jeremy in AZ, 01/15/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I feel I got a lot of car for the money. Has been great in all conditions: highway, snowy weather, muddy backroads, rough and loose jeep- type trails. Lots of cargo room. A nice balance of performance and gas mileage. Yes, the upgraded models have a plusher interior...but the X is bomber as is.
Forester Fan Forever!
Tom in FL, 03/31/2005
2005 Subaru Forester XS L.L.Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a small SUV that just loves you back with its performance, economy, and looks. I have never had a car before where people seeing it just stop and stare and then all nod their heads to their friends! And I thought the Outback was great; it is but the Forester L.L. Bean Edition is a luxury car with a good value price. And I don't want to forget the wonderful service by my Subaru dealer which is seldom needed!
Going Up
QuickTM, 11/15/2004
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have a cabin in the mountains, and I need AWD for the winter. I recently went up for the weekend only to see Cars coming down the mountian with their flashers on (because of snow) however my little subie handled perfectly with out a slip. I thought I would be getting better gas mileage than I am, only getting about 26-28 on the highway (must be my lead foot). There is nothing bad about the car that relatively cheap aftermarket gear can't fix --talking about shifter knobs and tint not expensive body kits.
2005 Forester
Traci, 01/27/2005
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We really enjoy our new car, we love driving Subaru's. We had a Impreza Outback Sport and loved it also but just needed more room for the family.
Best suv for suv haters
New to Subaru, 10/29/2004
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The forester has been a great car so far. We have had it for about 2 weeks and it is getting about 29MPG on mixed driving. We needed more room for camping, bikes, dog, and eventually children and had a hard time buying a suv. The only thing that won us over is that it is as close to a car as you can get end gets better milage than most cars do. The car feels solid even when comparing it to the prelude we traded in for it. Still in the break in perid so we haven't run it hard yet. We would recomend the car to anyone.
Fantastic Forester!
BaldBabs, 10/21/2004
2005 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Moonroof (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Love this vehicle!!!! It's very comfortable and handles great. I've never had one problem with it ever!! I only wish it got a bit better gas milage but I'm happy to spend a little more on gas and have All Wheel Drive. I used to clutch the steering wheel in wet weather but now I feel completely safe and in control. Love the Subaru and the support staff is knowledgable and friendly.
Second Forester
Phil, 12/29/2008
2005 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Had a 2000 Forester and replaced it with the 2005 after looking at CRV, RAV4 and Sportage. Though few visible changes, I can see great improvements over the 2000 model in mileage, acceleration and interior trim. This is my third Subaru and they can't be beat for cold climates.
Fun Practical Sleeper
Sleeperxt, 10/09/2004
2005 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had this wagon for a little over a year now. It is one of the most practical vehicles I have ever owned. My wife drives a Sequoia. We use that truck to tow our camper and for long trips (200+ miles). Other than that, it's almost always the Forester that gets the call. We have two boys and activities include Soccer and Baseball, both of which I coach, I cary lots of equip.and it all fits. Now for my payoff. I do not participate in or condone street racing!, but just up to the speed limit (50-60)this vehicle can be devistating to just about anything under the hottest offering of the Vette. AWD and a short 1st-2nd gear+250hp (Subaru understates it's rating)=fast.
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